2026 MAZDA CX-50 vs. Honda CR-V

2026 Mazda CX-50 SUV with roof rack and open liftgate outdoors

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 embodies everything great about Mazda automobiles. Its performance is exceptional, its power undeniable, and its cabin upscale and comfortable. In the competitive compact SUV class, which includes rivals such as the Honda CR-V, a test drive at Med Center Mazda will demonstrate why the Mazda CX-50 is the superior choice.

Engine

The Mazda CX-50 features a robust 2.5-liter engine with two dynamic tunings. One achieves 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, while the other adds a turbocharger that increases output to 256 horsepower, 320 lb-ft of torque, and zero to 60 mph time of 7.2 seconds. The Honda CR-V offers just one engine: a turbocharged 1.5-liter capable of 190 horsepower, 179 lb-ft of torque, and zero to 60 in 8.0 seconds. Moreover, the Mazda CX-50 is by far the more capable tower—its maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lbs when properly equipped, compared to just 1,500 lb max for the Honda CR-V.

Cabin

Climb into the cabin of the Mazda CX-50 at our Pelham, AL, Mazda dealership and you’ll find an interior that rivals more expensive luxury vehicles. Comfortable seats, thoughtful ergonomics, and upscale materials and surfaces set it apart from rivals such as the Honda CR-V. The engine of the Honda CR-V also tends to run a little bit hotter, and thus louder, than the Mazda CX-50.

2026 Mazda CX-50 interior with brown leather seats and center console

Performance

While the performance of the Honda CR-V may be sufficient for some drivers, it lacks the dynamics and excitement of the Mazda model. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 benefits from the Mazda brand’s legendary performance engineering, with innovations such as Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive™) and dedicated drive modes such as Sport and Off-Road. Also notable is the fact that our new Mazda SUV comes standard with i-Activ AWD®, whereas the Honda CR-V only offers AWD as an option.

Explore the 2026 MAZDA CX-50 in Pelham, AL

For luxury-level driving at a competitive price, no compact SUV rivals the 2026 Mazda CX-50. Schedule a test drive at Med Center Mazda to experience this sublime model, talk leasing and financing, and get a Mazda trade-in valuation.